Top 20 Tourist Spots in the Philippines Every Traveler Must Visit

By Cielo Fernando November 24, 2020

When someone mentions the Philippines, one can’t help but think of pristine beaches. Because after being recognized as the world’s best island several times already, how can you not? But it’s not just about beaches. With over 7,000 islands, there’s a perfect tourist spot in the Philippines that will satisfy every traveler’s wanderlust.

20 Most Loved Philippine Attractions by Travelers

From Luzon and Visayas to Mindanao, we’ve rounded up all the most beautiful Philippine attractions that won’t fail to impress you.

Palawan
Batanes
Boracay
Cebu
Siargao
Ifugao
Camiguin
Ilocos
Manila
Bohol
Pampanga
Tagaytay
Batangas
Rizal
Laguna
Zamboanga
Sagada
Baler
Siquijor
Bacolod

Read this travel guide to help you find the perfect tourist spot in the Philippines for an unforgettable trip.

20. Bacolod

The capital of Negros Occidental, also known as the City of Smiles, is famous for its MassKara Festival, the delicious cuisine, hospitable locals, and the scenic Bacolod tourist spots.

This city offers a rich culture and history with a mix of urban life that never fails to amaze its visitors.

Suggested article: Top 8 Bacolod Tourist Spots Every Traveler Must Not Miss

Bacolod Tourist Spots:

The Ruins

Negros Museum

Balay Negrense

Mambukal Mountain Resort

San Sebastian Cathedral

Bernardino Jalandoni Museum

Pulang Tubig Falls

Best time to visit: During March to May (dry season) and October for the MassKara Festival.

How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight bound for Bacolod.

19. Siquijor

Magic and mystery come to mind when someone hears Siquijor. While some stories could be true, the only magic you should look forward to is the one brought by the enchanting Siquijor tourist spots that will make you want to walk straight into a beautiful trap.

It is a small island province located in the Central Visayas region oozing with pristine beaches, beautiful diving spots, waterfalls, and a cave. This tourist destination in the Philippines used to be known as the Island of Fire enveloped by mystic traditions such as witchcraft, healing, spiritual rituals.

Must-read: 10 Siquijor Tourist Spots That’ll Make You Walk Straight Into A Beautiful Trap

Siquijor Tourist Spots:

Cambugahay Falls

Paliton Beach

Cantabon Cave

Old Enchanted Balete Tree

Siquijor Butterfly Sanctuary

Salagdoong Beach

San Juan Beach

Cang-isok House

Sandugan Beach

St. Francis of Assisi Church

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, you can book a flight to Dumaguete. Once in Dumaguete, hire a tricycle or motorcycle to take you to the port. Upon arrival at the port, ride a ferry bound for Siquijor.

18. Baler

Believed to be the birthplace of surfing in the Philippines, Baler in Aurora Province is getting the attention not just of local travelers but also foreigners. While Baler is popular for its sensational waves, surfing isn’t the only thing you can do in this town. You’ll surely find the perfect Baler tourist spot that will charm you.

Baler Tourist Spots:

Sabang Beach

Dicasalarin Cove

Diguisit Beach

Museo de Baler

Balete Park and Millennium Tree

Ermita Hill

Baler Town Plaza

Baler Catholic Church

Ditumabo Falls

Doña Aurora’s House

Zabali Hanging Bridge

Best time to visit: What’s great about surfing in Baler is that waves are present all year but the best Baler surfing season is from September to February.

How to get there: From Manila, ride the Joy Bus that will take you directly to Baler. You can also ride the Victory Liner bound for Cabanatuan but you’ll have to transfer to another bus to reach Baler. Travel time to Baler is 5 to 6 hours.

17. Sagada

Sagada, home to spectacular views and breathtaking natural wonders, is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines, especially for backpackers.

It’s also a popular soul-searching destination as the place offers sunny but cool weather, lush natural landscapes, and a sea of clouds that will let you think whether you’re still on Earth. This is where you’ll see the famous historical and mysterious hanging coffins, scenic and calming mountain valleys, rice terraces, limestone caves, stunning waterfalls, and friendly Igorots that let people discover its rich culture and traditions preserved over time.

Sagada Tourist Spots:

Echo Valley Hanging Coffins

Sagada Rice Terraces

Bomod-ok Falls

Bokong Falls

Sumaguing Cave

Lumiang Cave

Marlboro Hills

Mt. Kiltepan Viewpoint

Blue Soil Hills

Pongas Falls

Best time to visit: During the wet season (November to February) where you can expect temperatures to be as low as 4°C.

How to get there: From Manila, you can ride a bus bound for Baguio that will take about 4 to 6 hours of travel time. Upon arrival in Baguio, you will have to go to the bus terminal and ride the GL Trans Bus bound for Sagada. From there, it will take another 5 to 6 hours to reach Sagada.

Another option is you can take the bus in Sampaloc, Manila bound for Banaue that takes 9 hours of travel time. Upon arrival in Banaue, take the 3 to 4-hour jeepney ride to the Sagada tourist spot you’re visiting.

Overall, travel time can take around 11 to 13 hours.

16. Zamboanga

The Philippines is not just all white and cream-colored beaches. In case you don’t know, Zamboanga boasts of its pink sand beach that definitely makes a perfect spot for Instagram snaps. This offbeat tourist spot in Mindanao has a lot of beautiful places waiting to be discovered.

Zamboanga Tourist Spots:

Merloquet Falls

Paseo del Mar

Pink Beach Zamboanga

Yakan Weaving Village

Pasonanca Park

Great Santa Cruz Island

Bayangan Island

Tagbilat Falls

Rizal Shrine

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, you can book a flight or ride a ferry bound for Zamboanga City.

15. Laguna

Because of its proximity to Manila, Laguna has become one of the favorite go-to destinations for weekend travelers. Just two to three hours away from Manila, you can already have your much-deserved staycation in Laguna! This province is home to so many natural wonders from waterfalls to hot springs. With this, any Laguna tourist spot is a no-fail.

Laguna Tourist Spots:

Seven Lakes

Lake Pandin

Bato Springs

Dampalit falls

Mt. Makiling

Enchanted Kingdom

Nuvali Park

Rizal Shrine

Republic Wakepark

Pagsanjan Falls

Hidden Valley Springs

Hulugan Falls

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, you can take a bus from Pasay, Cubao, or Buendia bound for Calamba or Santa Cruz. The travel time from Manila to Laguna is around 2 to 3 hours.

14. Rizal

When planning for a quick getaway, our usual go-to destinations are Tagaytay and Batangas. But Rizal Province has equally stunning places that are worth the visit, too. In fact, some of the Rizal tourist spots are historical and have been featured in many travel shows and magazines already! This tourist spot in Luzon will give you the adventure of a lifetime.

Must-read: 10 Must-See Rizal Tourist Spots for an Amazing Adventure

Rizal Tourist Spots:

Hinulugang Taktak

Pinto Art Museum

Angono-Binangonan Petroglyphs

Masungi Georeserve

Daranak Falls

Batlag Falls

Tinipak River

Cloud 9 Antipolo

Pililla Wind Farm

Treasure Mountain

Best time to visit: All year

How to get there: From EDSA Starmall or Megamall in Mandaluyong, ride a van or jeep bound for Tanay. It will pass through different towns of Rizal like Antipolo, Teresa, Morong, Baras, and Tanay. This is the easiest and cheapest way on how to go to Tanay Rizal. For vans, the fare is PHP 80 while PHP 56 for jeeps.

13. Batangas

Batangas’ stunning land and seascapes have long been enticing travelers to experience its beauty firsthand. It is a default destination for short and spontaneous getaways because it’s just two hours away from Manila. With many Batangas tourist spots to check out—from beaches, coves, and mountains—travelers will never get bored in this province.

Known for its iconic dive spots and stunning beaches, there is more to Batangas than a dose of vitamin sea. From the relaxing activities to heart-pumping things to do in Batangas, the province surely has a lot to offer for all types of travelers.

What’s even better is that Batangas is just two hours away from Manila, perfect for city dwellers in need of a quick getaway.

Batangas Tourist Spots:

Fortune Island

Laiya Beach

Anilao

Masasa Beach

Matabungkay Beach

Sepoc Beach

Caleruega Chapel

Mt. Batulao

Malabrigo Lighthouse

Cape Santiago Lighthouse

Best time to visit: All year

How to get there: From Manila, Pasay, or Cubao, you can ride a bus or van bound for Batangas. Make sure to choose the right bus or van depending on your destination.

12. Tagaytay

Whether you’re on for an adventure or just want a quick escape from the busy city life, Tagaytay never fails to satisfy the traveler in you. With many Tagaytay tourist spots to see, yummy dishes to try, and fun experiences not to miss out on while enjoying the cool weather, you will definitely have the vacation you’ve been looking for.

That’s why it’s no wonder that Tagaytay is a favorite tourist spot in Luzon.

Must-read: The Complete Guide For A Staycation in Tagaytay

Tagaytay Tourist Spots:

Taal Volcano and Lake

Picnic Grove

People’s Park in the Sky

Sky Ranch

Museo Orlina

Puzzle Mansion

Sonya’s Garden

Mahogany Beef Market

Paradizoo

Tierra de Maria

Nurture Wellness Village

Dreamland Arts & Crafts Cafe

Best time to visit: All year

How to get there: From Manila, Pasay, or Cubao, ride a bus bound for Nasugbu and tell the driver to drop you off in Tagaytay. There are also some buses that travel to Tagaytay directly.

11. Pampanga

If there’s something that Pampanga is known for, it’s their heavenly Kapampangan dishes that never fails to satisfy foodies. While being the Culinary Capital of the Philippines is enough to convince us to go there, you must also discover the best Pampanga tourist spot.

What’s even better is that Pampanga to Manila is just two hours away so it’s very accessible especially if you’re craving for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Pampanga Tourist Spots:

Mt. Pinatubo

Sandbox

Mt. Arayat National Park

Sky Ranch

Aqua Planet

Nayong Pilipino

Clark Museum and 4D Theatre

Zoocobia Fun Zoo

Pradera Verde

Dinosaurs Island

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: Ride a bus bound for Olongapo and tell the driver to drop you off at San Fernando, Pampanga. You can also ride a Point-to-Point (P2P) bus from NAIA, Makati, Ortigas, and SM North Edsa bound for Pampanga but this is more expensive than the regular buses.

10. Bohol

Home to the iconic Chocolate Hills and the world’s smallest primates, Bohol is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Philippines. With its stunning Bohol tourist spots, it’s no wonder that travelers and locals alike couldn’t help but be amazed.

From historic sites and pristine beaches to waterfalls and a majestic cave, Bohol never fails to stun its visitors.

Must-read: Bohol Itinerary: Best Places to Visit and Budget Guide All in One

Bohol Tourist Spots:

Panglao Island

Chocolate Hills

Hinagdanan Cave

Loboc River

Bamboo Hanging Bridge

Man-Made Forest

Anda Beach

Blood Compact Shrine

Philippine Tarsier and Wildlife Sanctuary

Danao Adventure Park

Balicasag Island

Baclayon Church

Dimiao Twin Waterfalls

Alona Beach

The Mirror of the World

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight bound for Bohol. If you’re coming from Cebu, just take a ferry to Bohol.

9. Manila

The city of Manila is a place that is both old and modern. With its rich history, almost all areas have become great tourist spots in Manila that everyone wants to visit. From the preserved architecture brought by Spanish colonialism to outstanding Filipino culture, Manila has everything you’d ask for!

Manila Tourist Spots:

Intramuros

Escolta

National Museum of the Philippines

Rizal Park

Manila Baywalk

San Agustin Church

Manila Cathedral

Fort Santiago

Manila Ocean Park

Dessert Museum

Binondo

Best time to visit: All year

How to get there: From NAIA or other parts of Metro Manila, you can ride a bus, van or jeep going to Cubao and other parts of Manila. If you want a hassle-free commute, just book a Grab Car or taxi.

8. Ilocos

Visiting Ilocos is like traveling back in time because of its preserved Spanish Colonial town that even the world considers as one of the best. Aside from the magnificent Vigan tourist spots, what makes this tourist destination in the Philippines well-loved is its historical and cultural significance that feeds not just wanderlust but also a traveler’s mind and soul.

Ilocos Tourist Spots:

Paoay Church

Calle Crisologo

Syquia Mansion Museum

RG Jar Factory

Bantay Church Bell Tower

Baluarte Resort

Vigan Cathedral

Crisologo Museum

Plaza Salcedo

Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone

Mindoro Beach of Vigan

Malacañang of the North

Tirad Pass

Pagudpud Beach

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: You can either take a plane for faster travel or a bus. But the cheapest way to travel to Ilocos Province is by bus. Some of the buses that have direct trips daily are Partas, Dominion Bus Lines, Viron Transit, and St. Joseph/Aniceto Transit, while Philippine Rabbit Bus Line, Fariñas, Maria de Leon, Florida, Baliwag, and RCJ Transit have regular trips that pass by Vigan via the Manila-Laoag route.

7. Camiguin

Camiguin, an island-province in Northern Mindanao, was once an obscure location but now is among the top tourist destinations in the Philippines. With so many Instagrammable Camiguin tourist spots, the Island Born of Fire becomes a favorite travel destination.

From the pristine Camiguin Island tourist spots and jaw-dropping waterfalls to the glorious underwater world and historic structures from the Spanish colonial era, Camiguin definitely makes up the ultimate feed goal that every ‘grammer aims for!

Camiguin Tourist Spots:

White Island Camiguin

Mantigue Island Nature Park

Sunken Cemetery

Tuasan Falls

Katibawasan Falls

Guiob Church Ruins

Burias Shoal

Sto. Niño Cold Spring

Soda Water Swimming Pool

Mt. Hibok-Hibok

Ardent Hot Spring

Camiguin Aviation

Taguines Lagoon

Treasures Camiguin

Tungatok Viewdeck

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: As of writing, there is no direct flight from Manila to Camiguin. Cagayan de Oro City is the gateway to Camiguin. What you can do is book a flight from Manila to CDO. From CDO to Camiguin, the travel time is approximately over two hours including the land and sea travel.

6. Ifugao

One of the most famous Philippine attractions is Ifugao Province where you’ll find the UNESCO World Heritage Site Banaue Rice Terraces. But it’s not just the Banaue Rice Terraces you should look forward to because there are many other places in Ifugao that will teach you the traditional way of life and culture.

Ifugao Tourist Spots:

Banaue Rice Terraces

Banaue Viewpoint

Batad Rice Terraces

Hungduan Rice Terraces

Bangaan Rice Terraces

Hapao Rice Terraces

Tappiya Falls

Hanging Bridge

Bogyah Hot Spring

Best time to visit: April to June

How to get there: From Manila, ride a bus bound for Banaue. Travel time takes around 9 hours

5. Siargao

Other than Siargao surfing, you’ll likely fall for this teardrop-shaped island’s pristine white beaches, coconut woodlands, the clearest waters you’ve ever seen, and the sensational towering waves, as soon as you set your foot there.

What makes Siargao tourist spots an ideal travel destination is that it has remained unspoiled, remote, sparsely developed, and still relatively under the radar, making it even more appealing to travelers who are craving natural beauty and a slower pace. This tourist spot in Mindanao will surely captivate your heart.

Must-read: Siargao Travel Guide: What Every First-Timer Should Know Before Going to Siargao

Siargao Tourist Spots:

Guyam Island

Naked Island

Daku Island

Magpupungko Rock Pools

Coconut Street

Cloud 9

Sugba Lagoon

Maasin River

Best time to visit: March to May; October to November

How to get there: From Manila, you can book a flight or board a ferry bound for Siargao.

4. Cebu

Cebu is a melting pot for food, arts, culture, religion, and island life in the Philippines. The province does not disappoint its visitors with its amazingly beautiful Cebu tourist spots and fun activities to try.

Dubbed as the Queen City of the South, Cebu offers a unique travel experience as it is a place where city and paradise meet.

Cebu Tourist Spots:

Oslob

Bantayan Island

Malapascua Island

Kawasan Falls

Simala Shrine

Temple of Leah

Sirao Flower Garden

Pescador Island

Magellan’s Cross

Fort San Pedro

Best time to visit: January (for Sinulog Festival); March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight going to Cebu.

3. Boracay

Famous for its oh-so-fine white sand beaches, amazing nightlife, and fun water activities, Boracay is the best tourist spot in the Philippines to enjoy all the things you want in one place. In fact, it’s always on the list of the world’s most beautiful islands by international travel magazines. Whether you’re just aiming to get a tan at the world-famous beach or planning to try the heart-pounding water activities, Boracay tourist spots will give you everything you need.

Boracay Tourist Spots:

White Beach

Crystal Cove Island

Bulabog Beach

Diniwid Beach

Puka Shell Beach

D’Mall

Ariel’s Point

Mount Luho

Ilig-Iligan Beach

Willy’s Rock

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, book a direct flight going to Caticlan or Kalibo, Aklan. Upon arrival at the airport, you must ride a ferry bound for Boracay.

2. Batanes

Breathtaking views, fascinating and rich culture, and kind locals—these pretty much sums up why travelers dream of visiting Batanes. This province may be the smallest in the Philippines but it sure has a lot to offer when it comes to majestic scenery thanks to the jaw-dropping Batanes tourist spots.

Batanes Tourist Spots:

Racuh A Payaman (Marlboro Country)

Alapad Hill and Rock Formation

Basco Lighthouse

Tayid Lighthouse

Honesty Coffee Shop

Morong Beach

Valugan Boulder Beach

House of Dakay

Savidug Stone Houses

Mt. Carmel Chapel

Vayang Rolling Hills

Chawa View Deck

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season); June (for Batanes Day)

How to get there:

1. Palawan

Topping our list of the most beautiful tourist spots in the Philippines is none other than Palawan.

With the undeniable beauty of Palawan, it has already become a regular on the list of the world’s best islands of international travel magazines. Of course, this doesn’t come as a surprise. From the clear blue-green waters of lagoons and colorful reefs to pristine white beaches, what more can you ask for? The Palawan tourist spot has been the talk of the town, the world rather, because of its magnificent charm.

Puerto Princesa Tourist Spots:

Puerto Princesa Underground River

Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center

Baker’s Hill

Honda Bay

Cowrie Island

El Nido Beaches:

Hidden Beach

Nacpan Beach

Twin Beach

Marimegmeg Beach

Las Cabañas Beach

Coron Tourist Spots:

Kayangan Lake

Twin Lagoons

Barracuda Lake

Malcapuya Island

Siete Pecados Marine Park

Mt. Tapyas

Calauit Island Safari

Best time to visit: March to May (dry season)

How to get there: From Manila, there are flights that travel directly to all parts of Palawan but for El Nido, it’s more expensive.

Finding the best tourist spot in the Philippines is easy but leaving them is hard. With their unique features, interesting stories about them, and the friendly locals who take good care to preserve its beauty, a trip to the Philippines will surely be one for the books.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Spot in the Philippines

Q: What is the best tourist spot in the Philippines?

A: From Luzon and Visayas to Mindanao, here are the most beautiful Philippines tourist attractions that won’t fail to impress you.

Palawan
Batanes
Boracay
Cebu
Siargao
Ifugao
Camiguin
Ilocos
Manila
Bohol
Pampanga
Tagaytay
Batangas
Rizal
Laguna
Zamboanga
Sagada
Baler
Siquijor
Bacolod

Q: What is the most beautiful tourist spot in Luzon?

A: Luzon is full of beautiful places to visit. Among these are:

Intramuros
Mt. Kiltepan Viewpoint
Anawangin Cove
Mayon Volcano
Taal Volcano
Tinipak River
Mt. Pinatubo
Puerto Princesa Underground River
Racuh A Payaman
Big Lagoon
Small Lagoon
Kayangan Lake
Banaue Rice Terraces

Q: Why is the Philippines the best tourist attraction destination?

A: The Philippines is a great place to travel to because of its pristine islands that have been recognized as the world’s best by international travel magazines; its historical sites; delicious cuisine; and of course, the hospitable locals.

Q: What is the famous food in the Philippines?

A: After exploring the Philippines tourist attractions, make sure to try some of the best and most popular Filipino food:

Adobo
Sinigang
Kare-Kare
Sisig
Lechon
Bulalo
Kansi
Chicken Inasal
Halo-Halo
Suman

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